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Union Cabinet Confers Classical Language Status On Assamese, Bengali, Pali, Prakrit, Marathi

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced cabinet's decision to confer classical language status on Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali.

Union Cabinet on Thursday approved the conferment of classical language status on five languages: Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese and Bengali. The announcement was made by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The Union Minister also spoke about the steps undertaken by the Centre to preserve and promote the classical languages in the country. Earlier, the central government also recognised Tamil, Malayalam, Odia, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam as classical languages.

Minister Vaishnaw stated: "By now, we had Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia as the notified classical languages. The government is taking many steps to conserve and promote the classical languages and to preserve the rich heritage of these languages."

He also underscored that this move honours the historical significance of these languages and also aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation among the younger generations. It will also open avenues for research and preservation of this ancient languages.

Assam CM Expresses Gratitude

Following the announcement, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed gratatiude to the Centre for including Assamese in the classical language category.

In a post on X, he stated: "On behalf of the people of Assam, I extend my gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji and the entire Union Cabinet for the historic decision to accord Assamese the status of Classical Language."

He also thanked PM Modi for his efforts to secure India's heritage.

"This exemplifies the unique civilisational roots of Assam that have withstood the test of time. With today’s decision, we shall be able to better preserve our beloved mother tongue, that not only unites our society but also forms an unbroken link to the ancient wisdom of Assam’s saints, thinkers, writers, and philosophers," he added.

PM Modi Extends Congratulations On Cabinet's Decision

PM Modi also took to X to extend congratulations on the government's decision to confer Classical languages status on five languages.

"Our Government cherishes and celebrates India's rich history and culture. We have also been unwavering in our commitment to popularising regional languages. I am extremely glad the Cabinet has decided that Assamese, Bengali, Marathi, Pali and Prakrit will be conferred the status of Classical Languages!  Each of them are beautiful languages, highlighting our vibrant diversity. Congratulations to everyone," he posted on X.

He also posted separate tweets for each language, highlighting the value each of them hold.

Congratulating Assam, he wrote: "I am immensely delighted that Assamese will now get the status of a Classical Language after this was approved by the Union Cabinet. Assamese culture has thrived for centuries, and it has given us a rich literary tradition. May this language continue to become even more popular in the times to come. My congratulations."

"I am very happy that the great Bengali language has been conferred the status of a Classical Language, especially during the auspicious time of Durga Puja. Bengali literature has inspired countless people for years. I congratulate all the Bengali speakers all over the world on this," PM Modi posted as he congratulated Bengali speakers across the globe.

He expressed hope that conferring the Classical Languages status to these languages will motivate people to learn about them.

"Pali and Prakrit are at the root of India's culture. These are languages of spirituality, wisdom and philosophy. They are also known for their literary traditions. Their recognition as Classical Languages honours their timeless influence on Indian thought, culture and history. I am confident that after the Cabinet decision on recognising them as Classical Languages, more people will be motivated to learn about them. This is indeed a joyous moment!"

Calling Marathi "India's pride," he said: "Congratulations on this phenomenal language being accorded the status of a Classical Language. This honour acknowledges the rich cultural contribution of Marathi in our nation’s history. Marathi has always been a cornerstone of Indian heritage. I am sure with the status of a Classical Language, many more people will be motivated to learn it."

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